The Federal Reserve Bank of Boston is one of 12 banks in the Federal Reserve System that serves as the central bank of the United States. As a leader in financial regulation, monetary policy, and a pioneer of new payment strategies the Boston Fed uses cutting edge technology to achieve its goals and ensure a vibrant economy. As part of the central bank of the United States the Fed is tasked with ensuring the growth and stability of the global economy, and is called upon to respond to financial crises. In order to do this the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston has pioneered cutting edge payment methods, developed state of the art data security programs, and conducted extensive research to assist in policy directives from the Federal Government.